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A judge Tuesday sentenced Remi Gross-Santos, 19, to two years in prison, but the sentence was suspended. He was ordered to perform community service.

Prosecutors argued that Gross-Santos should serve at least six months in jail to send a strong message to others. Gross-Santos was 17 when he struck two women as he headed to Portsmouth High School for graduation rehearsal in 2014.

"He knew he'd been drinking," Rockingham County Attorney Patricia Conway said. "He knew he had 2 1/2 hours of sleep, yet he continued to drive."

Among those who spoke at the sentencing hearing was one of the victims, 70-year-old retired teacher Karen Weinhold. Her voice was hoarse from an injury to her throat she suffered in the crash.

"After several surgeries, it remains to be heard if my voice will be heard," she said. "I'm in constant pain from my neck, my hand."

Weinhold's daughters described a strong, loving woman who used to zip line and ride bikes. They said all their lives were changed forever by the crash.

Supporters of Gross-Santos spoke of strength of character. His mother described his love of books, acknowledging the suffering and pain his actions caused, something Gross-Santos also spoke about.

"I know I have taken your health and your freedom," he said. "I will make it up to you in any way I can, to you and the community that we both love."

Judge Will Delker cited more than 100 letters in support of the teen and his character in suspending the two-year prison term and ordering 300 hours of community service.

"Part of the community service will be speaking to at least 20 high school classes about the consequences of this case and your behavior and your actions," Delker said.